It takes a village to raise a winner like Jaja Santiago. Just ask the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, the PNVF, and of course husband Takayuki Minowa.
It takes a village to raise a winner like Jaja Santiago.
Jaja Santiago took time on social media to express her deepest gratitude and love to all the people who contributed to her successful first season with the JT Marvelous in the Japan V.League Division 1.
Santiago first sent her regards to her squad, who finished with an immaculate 22-0 record in the regular season. They went on to topple Ageo Medics in the semifinals before falling short against defending champions NEC Red Rockets in the final round.
She first thanked God for an injury-free season.
"First and foremost, to thank God for His guidance throughout the entire year. I’m so thankful for a safe league, no injuries, and the amazing opportunities He has given me," she wrote.
"To my team, thank you for making me feel at home, even though it was my first time playing with all of you. To my teammates and coaches, who were always willing to share their knowledge and experiences with me, thank you! I have learned so much this season. The league might have ended up below our expectations, but I have no regrets because we gave our best effort until the end. Let’s move forward and win our next tournament," Santiago wrote of her team JT Marvelous.
The former NU Lady Bulldog then gave sweet words to her and relatives whom she described as a big help for her “to perform at [her] best, whether it is during [her] local or international career.”
Santiago also thanked her Chery Tiggo Crossovers family, prompting Aby Maraño and Mylene Paat to send their congratulatory messages.
"So so proud of you dearly @alyjasantiago3 😍 you never fail to amaze us! Mua," Tyang Aby posted.
"So proud of you Jing. 👏🙌???🔥," Mama P added.
Santiago also gave flowers to her supporters, especially the Filipino community in Japan, who rallied behind her and the JT Marvelous in their campaign.
"Your unwavering support and cheers for me and my team mean the world to us. I cannot put into words how grateful I am to have you all in my life. You all inspire me to keep pushing and reaching for greater heights in my career. We still have a long way to go, but we’ve already come so far," Santiago wrote.
It prompted fellow Japan V.League import Jia de Guzman to comment, "Congrats Jaja! Napakagaling!"
Finally, the 6-foot-5 volleyball penned a sweet message to her husband and NXLED Chameleons coach Takayuki Minowa, whom she described as her “favorite person in the world.”
"To my amazing husband, thank you so much for everything you do for me, your unwavering support, and the endless love you give me daily. Even though being apart is challenging, our strong bond and your constant encouragement help us not just survive but thrive through it all. I am so grateful for you and the wonderful person you are. Keep smiling every day, asawa ko," Santiago posted.
"I know work is challenging right now, but I believe in you and always proud of you. Stay strong, stay positive, and know that I’m always here for you, no matter the distance. I eagerly await the day you come back home! I love you more than words can say, asawa ko! ??"
Despite being in a long-distance relationship, the two never failed to show out their love and affection to each other. The couple have been married for two years now.
A winner on and off the taraflex, that’s Jaja Santiago for you.
Will we be seeing Jaja back in the country anytime soon?
[ALSO READ: PVL: Jia de Guzman ruled out for Creamline, Jaja Santiago remains eligible for Chery Tiggo in All-Filipino Conference]